Manchester City have officially included Rodri in their Champions League squad for the knockout rounds, a decision that signals growing optimism over his potential return from injury. The Spanish midfielder has been sidelined since September with a torn ACL in his right knee, but his addition to the squad list suggests he could feature before the end of the season.
Rodri’s absence has been a significant blow for City, with the team struggling for consistency in both domestic and European competitions. In the Premier League, they currently sit 15 points behind leaders Liverpool, despite having played a game more. Their Champions League campaign also proved challenging, with the team narrowly advancing from the group stage after a dramatic comeback in their final match.
The 28-year-old suffered his injury earlier in the season, and initial fears suggested he could miss the remainder of the campaign. However, he has remained determined to return, stating in November that he was targeting a comeback before the season’s conclusion. While the typical recovery timeline for an ACL injury is lengthy, City’s decision to register him for European competition indicates confidence in his progress.
UEFA regulations allow clubs to make up to three changes to their squad ahead of the knockout stages, and Manchester City have opted to use one of those slots on Rodri. Reports from *The Telegraph* last month suggested this move was being considered, and *Sky Sports* has now confirmed that he has been officially reinstated. While this does not guarantee an immediate return to action, it is a strong indication that the club expects him to be available in the coming months.
His potential return comes at a crucial time for City, who are preparing for a pivotal Premier League fixture against Liverpool on February 23. With Guardiola’s side facing an uphill battle in the title race, the match could be decisive in their pursuit of a fourth consecutive league title. However, recovering from an ACL injury requires careful management, and the club is unlikely to take risks with his fitness. His progress will be monitored closely before any decision is made on when he can rejoin the squad.
Rodri’s importance to the team has been evident throughout his absence, with City struggling to maintain the same level of control in midfield. Guardiola has tested various combinations in an attempt to compensate for the loss, but none have provided the same stability. His return would offer a significant boost as City continue to compete on multiple fronts.
By including him in their Champions League squad, City have signaled their belief that he will play a role in the latter stages of the season. Should he return in time for the final months of the campaign, he could have a decisive impact on their ambitions in both the Premier League and Europe.
Be the first to comment